odds and ends

Nothing yet on the bank failure scene -- wait.

I've noticed that a number of blogs are either shutting down, changing principal posters, or posting new stuff less frequently. In addition, a number seem to be recirculating news and opinion gleaned elsewhere (like I tend to do).

I'm beginning to think most blogs are an exercise in vanity, or a way to practice your writing -- unless you have an overarching obsession, a strongly held ideological viewpoint, or are an expert in your field (whatever it is).

In the past I've been very critical of Pres. Obama - from a "progressive" point of view. Recently I've begun to tell myself to be patient -- he does seem to be making some headway on some important issues (health care, hate crimes), and seems to be open to other changes (bank regulation).

I do not believe real regulation of the banks, and the economy, will happen until the banks suffer another meltdown. The financial sector still has too much power. Unless the people really begin to act up, to threaten to throw ALL the bums out -- nothing real will be done. Money still talks louder than the people do.

Meanwhile liberal bloggers have little to cheer about. Right-wingers are still stuck in the same tired old groove, and our "recovering" economy still looks very shaky. Maybe this is just a "recovery" for the still rich -- you know, society's "winners" -- those who have yet to be humbled.